Taikodani Inari Shrine is a popular shrine located in Tsuwano in West Shimane. It is said to attract around 1 million visitors annually and is often rather crowded during the daytime. There are many Inari shrines in Japan, however, this is one of only five ‘grand’ Inari shrines in the country. It enshrines the deities Ukanomitama and Izanagi. Ukanomitama has long been worshipped as a bringer of prosperity.

The mountianside approach takes you through countless vermillion torii gates which mark the entrance to the spiritual world. Each of the torii contain the beliefs and prayers for success and a prosperous harvest of the worshippers who pass through the gates.

The shrine is spectacular just before sunrise, when the air is clear and the mountains coated in a gentle, ephemeral mist.

Getting There: The road from the station meets with the main street Tonomachi. At the crossroad you should see the shrine torii gate.